Large breed dogs are beautiful animals. They display a grace and strength in their movements that is often unexpected by those unfamiliar with the special qualities of this size dog. As the owner of a larger dog, an awareness of the common health problems that may affect your dog will help you to keep your animal healthy and happy well into the future. There are several things to keep in mind when striving to keep your pet healthy.
A good diet is one of the main things a pet owner can do to prevent many illnesses and injuries. The diet should include food specifically designed for large dogs, as well as supplements, and vitamins formulated for large breed dogs and their special needs. Combining a good diet and plenty of exercise will keep your dog healthy, and help to avoid obesity, heart problems and a host of other issues.
Certain diseases are more common in large breed dogs. Large breed dogs are more prone to have orthopedic (bone and skeletal) problems and heart concerns. The tendency toward Orthopedic problems stems from the dog’s size and the amount of weight a large breed dog has to carry versus his smaller canine relatives. In larger dogs, some growth problems may also lead to bone and skeletal problems due to the fast pace and amount of growth the large breed dog experience. If your dog is having orthopedic problems, they will become less active, have problems getting up after extended periods of rest, and decrease the use of their joints by reducing their overall level of activity.
Common Problems:
* Hip Dysplasia – The ball of the femur bone doesn’t fit into the hip socket, causing inflammation and pain.
* Cervical Vertebral Instability – An abnormality causing instability between two vertebrae (bones). This condition usually effects vertebrae(bones) in the neck of the large breed canine.
* Osteochondritis Dissecans – This is a flaw in the joint cartilage; more common in young larger breed dogs.
* Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy – Irregular bone growth which causes pain at the ends of the bones, there may have visible inflammation from this condition.
For problems, such as hip dysplasia, supplementing your dog’s diet with glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM in one of their many forms such as pills or tablets, will help to strengthen the bones and joints of the dog along with luricating them. Vitamins are also very helpful in maintaining health and the proper metabolism of nutrients in the diet of the larger dog.
One of the main heart problems for large breed dogs is dilated cardiomyopathy. If your large dog suffers from this disease, you will find the dog’s heart does not contract adequately, therefore, the organs and muscles do not receive the proper amount of blood. This type of heart disease can stem from hereditary, dietary, and environmental affects. Cardiomyopathy has a range of symptoms including respiratory problems. The disease can be diagnosed and treated by your veterinarian.
Some larger breed dogs can benefit from the administration of Omega 3 Fatty Oils. These oils are known to be helpful supporting circulatory health and are available in capsule form for ease of dosing.
Your veterinarian is your best source of information regarding your specific large breed dog. It is very important that you take your large dog to the veterinarian for regular check-ups. He or She will keep a record of your pets’ health and will be able to diagnose any illnesses or symptoms you may report concerning your large breed dog.
As with any canine, bathing and grooming your dog will reduce occurrences of fleas, ticks, mites, and common skin diseases. Also, brushing your dog’s teeth daily avoids dental problems and the many diseases that stem from poor oral health in dogs.
While it is important to be aware of proper care and health concerns, don’t forget the social aspect of owning a large breed. You should remember that many people are afraid of large dogs. It is important to raise your large breed dog to be friendly and obedient. Although you may want your dog to bark when strangers come to the door, once a stranger enters the home, your dog should be friendly, not vicious. The same rule applies at pet parks or out in public. Your dog should be friendly to passersby and obedient to all your commands (especially coming when you call and “stay”).
Large breed dogs often consider themselves to be “lap dogs”, and the owners of large breed dogs understand their special charm and way of expressing their love of their owners. Good diet, careful veterinary care, good grooming and the love of their owner will be all you large breed dog needs to thrive in your home.
